Saskatchewan and Alberta Reduce Red Tape for Heavy Equipment Apprentices

Released on May 19, 2026

The Government of Saskatchewan and the Government of Alberta have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to introduce cross-border apprenticeship registration for Heavy-Duty Equipment Technicians in Lloydminster. 

This agreement will support Saskatchewan employers and industry by allowing Saskatchewan-based Heavy Equipment Technician apprentices, employed in Lloydminster, to register as Alberta apprentices and attend technical training closer to home.

"Saskatchewan has a long-standing cooperative relationship with Alberta, and we are proud to sign this MOU that will allow Saskatchewan residents in Lloydminster the opportunity to access the training they need while remaining closer to home," Saskatchewan Immigration and Career Training Minister Eric Schmalz said. "This agreement also ensures Saskatchewan employers are not at a disadvantage when hiring in the region, helping to secure a more stable labour force within the Heavy-Duty Equipment Technician trade."

Employers and apprentices on either side of the border in Lloydminster may now register contracts of apprenticeship in either Saskatchewan or Alberta, regardless of residence or employer location. Saskatchewan will provide Alberta with financial compensation when Saskatchewan based apprentices register in Alberta.

"Our government is proud to work with Saskatchewan to give apprentices and employers in Lloydminster more flexibility," Alberta Advanced Education Minister Myles McDougall said. "By cutting red tape and making cross-border registration easier, this MOU helps strengthen the skilled trades workforce and the industries that rely on it."

"I am pleased to see this agreement move forward. The unique nature of Lloydminster creates opportunities for Saskatchewan residents to benefit from its location," Lloydminster MLA Colleen Young said. "The demand for heavy equipment apprentices is strong. Enabling our residents the chance to attend training closer to home is positive and may provide the incentive for more people to consider this career path."

This Memorandum of Understanding went into effect April 1, 2026.

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